7 Fantastic Road Trips You Must Take from Mumbai

The Western Ghats make for a lovely drive mostly, and not a very tough one. With so many places to visit near Mumbai, the best part is that there are ample road trip options no matter how the weather is. Come with me as I discover the best road trips from Mumbai, where not just it’s not the destination but the journey that makes the real difference.

1. Mumbai to Lonavala

Whether you’re a Mumbaikar or visiting the city for a while, your stay here would be incomplete without a road trip to Lonavala. Get set for a quick getaway if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands via the Mumbai-Pune expressway to Lonavala. If you’re on a two-wheeler, you’ll have to take the old Mumbai-Pune highway route. Tiger Point is where you should definitely stop for a round of corn pakodas and chai on your way to Lonavala. The breathtaking views of the Sahyadris are a bonus!

Explore Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum, located on Mumbai-Pune highway.

Distance: 83.3 km

Time: Around 2 hours

2. Mumbai to Goa

Bollywood has done enough to glorify the road trip from Mumbai to Goa. Starting on the Mumbai-Pune expressway, the 12-hour road trip takes you through coconut palms, paddy fields and the winding roads along the Western Ghats, which are enough to please the traveller in you. There are endless stretches overlooking the sea which provide ample photo opportunities on the way from Mumbai to Goa. Satara, Kolhapur and Sankeshwar are some places where you can stop for food and relaxation while on your way. While the NH4 route is a more straightforward one, the NH17 route is for the adventurous with its rugged roads, unexpected turns and not too many traffic lights. But remember, cellular signal is unpredictable here so it’s best to download a digital map on your smartphone which can be used in offline mode or just go old school and carry a paper map!

Distance: 591 km

Time: 12 hours

3. Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar

This road trip to the highest hill station in the Western Ghats takes you along the Mumbai-Pune expressway and is one of the most scenic ones you will ever drive onand goes along the Mumbai-Pune expressway. As you approach begin to near Mahabaleshwar, you’ll drive past pretty strawberry fields. These fields are in full bloom during the first half of the year, especially from February to April. If you happen to take this road trip during monsoon, you’ll notice many big and small streams on the way. It goes without saying that once you reach Mahabaleshwar, you will be welcomed with beautiful, glorious waterfalls which come alive post July. You can also explore the Kaas Plateau of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is just a short drive away from Mahabaleshwar.

Distance: 231 km

Time: 6 hours

4. Mumbai to Igatpuri

Spectacular mountain views, lush green vistas, charming waterfalls, especially during monsoon - these are some of the things you will come across on your drive to Igatpuri. The raindrops falling on your window will only make the drive more exciting. Igatpuri is an easy day trip from Mumbai and you'll have enough time to explore the major attractions here if you are on a road trip and want to go back the same day. Vipassana International Academy, or Dhammagiri, is the most popular one and will add to your rejuvenating experience. The backdrop of the Sahyadri range covered in mist lends a mystical charm to the Vipassana centre. A tour of the centre with one of the volunteers promises to be an awarding experience for nature lovers and hikers.

Distance: 121 km

Time: 3 hours

5. Mumbai to Alibaug

A comparatively shorter road trip, the ride to this beach destination via the Mumbai-Goa highway promises to be a fun-filled one. This trip is highly recommended if you’re planning a holiday with your dog as he/she will love to unwind at the beach as much as you will. A road trip with your adorable furry member on board also gives you tons of fantastic photo opportunities so keep your camera handy throughout. Don’t forget to capture the beautiful views of Kolaba Fort on your way to Alibaug as well.

Distance: 92.2 km

Time: 3 hours

6. Mumbai to Kashid

The beach at Kashid is secluded, serene and a must visit for nature lovers. The long, winding road which leads to Kashid is along the coastline and makes for a fantastic drive. It gives you the breath of fresh air you need to escape from the hustle bustle of city life. On your way back, you can also explore Murud beach and fort, which is 40 kilometres ahead. Since these are coastal areas, you’ll find a good variety of seafood at the food joints on your way.

Distance: 122 km

Time: 4 hours

7. Mumbai to Malshej Ghat

Drive down to Malshej Ghat during monsoon to experience yet another verdant and picturesque drive. You will also spot a lot of waterfalls on your own so ample photo opportunities await you. Here’s a little idea to make the road trip all the more worthwhile: Get down at a little distance from a waterfall you see and walk down along the side of the hill to take in the fresh air! We promise this experience will be one to remember for a long time to come. What’s more, this is only half the fun as you will be welcomed by bright orange flamingoes once you reach Malshej Ghat.

Distance: 127 km

Time: 3.5 hours

Have you taken any road trip from Mumbai that we haven’t covered? Share your experiences with us in the comments section below.

Book Your Flight to Mumbai